Ethiopia

Ethiopia Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Monthly climate averages for Ethiopia, temperatures, rainfall and the best time to visit.

Climate overview of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is affected by a number of geological features that have a strong influence on its climate. The predominant climate type however is a tropical monsoon climate. The Ethiopian Highlands cover most of the country and the weather is generally considerably cooler than other regions at a similar proximity to the Equator. East of the plateau, the landscape transitions into the drier Highlands of Somalia, where you will find an arid climate type. In the northeast and southeast you will experience a warm desert climate.

There are quite large differences in the total amount of precipitation within the country. The huge variations in landscape and altitude make for a country with lush green nature areas, but also large areas where drought causes hunger and disease. The highest mountain peaks of Ethiopia can have eternal snow, such as the 4377 meter (14.360 ft) high mountain Tullu Dimtu.

What is the best time of year to visit Ethiopia?
The best time to visit Ethiopia would be between January and March when average daily temperatures reach an average of 25°C (77°F). The dry season runs from September through to March which is also a good period for travelling Ethiopia. Rainy season starts in July till the end of September.

Explore Ethiopia by month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Ethiopia — and find the best time to visit. (based on Addis Ababa)

Places in Ethiopia

Select a city to see its average temperature, precipitation and hours of sunshine over the year.

Popular cities by month

Compare cities per month. Toggle cities on/off.

Addis Ababa Bahir Dar Lalībela Gonder Debre Zeyit Adama
Day temperature (°C)
Monthly rainfall (mm)
Monthly sunshine (hours)

Climate map

Average daily temperature, monthly rainfall & sunshine hours across cities.

Avg day temp (°C)
32°

Compare popular cities

Average daytime and nighttime temperatures, yearly rainfall and sunshine.

Addis Ababa 21°C (70°F) 26°C (79°F) 8°C (46°F) 12°C (54°F) 1801 mm (71 in) 2,573 hours
Bahir Dar 22°C (72°F) 29°C (84°F) 14°C (57°F) 18°C (64°F) 1746 mm (69 in)
Lalībela 21°C (70°F) 26°C (79°F) 9°C (48°F) 13°C (55°F) 1565 mm (62 in)
Gonder 22°C (72°F) 30°C (86°F) 11°C (52°F) 16°C (61°F) 2127 mm (84 in)
Debre Zeyit 23°C (73°F) 28°C (82°F) 10°C (50°F) 15°C (59°F) 902 mm (36 in) 2,573 hours
Adama 28°C (82°F) 31°C (88°F) 12°C (54°F) 17°C (63°F) 566 mm (22 in) 2,573 hours

FAQ

What temperatures can I expect in Ethiopia?

Adama is the warmest destination, reaching 31°C (88°F) in May with nights around 17°C (63°F). Lege Tʼafo is the coolest, with December daytime highs of just 20°C (68°F) and nights dropping to 8°C (46°F). Temperatures are relatively stable throughout the year. See the city comparison for a full overview.

How much rain does Ethiopia get?

Rainfall varies across Ethiopia. Gonder is the wettest, receiving 2127 mm (84 in) per year, with August the wettest month at 607 mm (24 in). Debre Zeyit is the driest at 902 mm (36 in) per year. Use the climate map to explore rainfall patterns across regions.

How sunny is Ethiopia?

Addis Ababa is the sunniest destination in Ethiopia, enjoying 2,573 hours of sunshine per year, with December the brightest month at 280 hours. Overall, Ethiopia enjoys abundant sunshine year-round. Compare sunshine across cities in the charts above.

What is the climate like across Ethiopia?

Addis Ababa has warm summers reaching 26°C (79°F) in March and pleasant winters dropping to 21°C (70°F), with 2,573 hours of sunshine and 1801 mm (71 in) of rain per year. Bahir Dar has warm summers reaching 29°C (84°F) in April and warm winters dropping to 22°C (72°F), with 0 hours of sunshine and 1746 mm (69 in) of rain per year. Lalībela has warm summers reaching 26°C (79°F) in March and pleasant winters dropping to 21°C (70°F), with 0 hours of sunshine and 1565 mm (62 in) of rain per year. Explore the climate charts and comparison table for more cities.

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Travel inspiration

Must-visit destinations and experiences across Ethiopia.